Introduction to Map- and Compass-Skills Course

ACTIVITY

A great course for individuals new to navigating with a compass. Our map and compass course will introduce you to the techniques and tools essential for wilderness navigation.

You'll start with a detailed look at the components of a USGS topographical map. Our experts will explain the importance of contour, terrain, how to read a map legend, and how to access maps that are best for your outdoor activity.

During this course, students will also learn the components of a handheld compass, how to use and trust the compass, plus how to obtain and follow a bearing from map to compass and compass to map. Additionally, your instructor will discuss declination (magnetic north vs. true north) and its importance in navigating with a map and compass.

This is a hands-on skills-based course; please come prepared to participate indoors and out.

All necessary navigation aids (map and compass) are provided.

North Park: Map & Compass

Allison Park, PA 15101, USA

Additional Information

What to Bring
- Weather- and activity-appropriate clothing (preferably synthetic*)
- Activity-appropriate closed-toed shoes
- Personal prescriptions such as EpiPen or inhaler
- One quart of water (no glass bottles)
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
*Synthetic clothing dries quickly and is the best choice for outdoor pursuits. Please do not wear cotton clothing. When wet, cotton rapidly robs the heat from your body and takes a long time to dry. We also recommend you dress in multiple layers, allowing you more flexibility to comfortably respond to the weather conditions and your level of exertion.
Optional Items to Bring
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Camera
- Snack
What We Provide
- Use of all necessary activity equipment: compass, local topo maps, etc.
Prerequisites
- None
QUESTIONS? Contact an Adventure Consultant

outdoor_discovery@llbean.com | 1-888-552-3261 | HOURS: 7 days a week, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. ET

Policies & Agreements

Smoking and Tobacco, and Alcohol Policy

Smoking and Tobacco Policy

L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs activities are tobacco- and smoke-free (including electronic smoking devices) in support of a healthy lifestyle and respect for our participants and guests. We thank you for understanding and respecting this policy.

Alcohol Policy

In general, alcohol consumption is not permitted during L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs events for the safety of all participants. However, alcoholic beverages are allowed on overnight trips and may only be consumed in a responsible way after the day’s activities are finished. If participants consume alcohol to excess in the evening and behave in ways that negatively impact their own safety, that of the group or the natural environment around them, our guides will intervene. We hope that we will never have to remove an offending guest from the remainder of a trip to ensure the group’s safety, but we will do so if necessary.
Minimum Age: 10 (14 & under with parent/guardian)

Participants must be 10 years old by the start of the trip, course, or tour; a parent or guardian must participate with anyone 14 years old and younger.
Cancellation Policy: Courses and Tours
This cancellation policy applies to non-overnight courses and day tours.
- 7 days in advance: 100% credit or refund
- Less than 7 days in advance: No credit or refund
L.L.Bean does not usually cancel events due to inclement weather. However, we reserve the right to cancel an event at any time due to severe weather, low enrollment or other concerns. If L.L.Bean cancels your event, you will receive a full refund for the cost of your reservation. All refunds will be in the form of the original transaction. L.L.Bean shall not be responsible or liable for other expenses incurred by the participant as a result of such a cancellation.